Historic reflection on steroids: Lederle and personal aspects

Area of Science:

• Steroid Chemistry and Pharmacology
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Lederle Laboratories conducted extensive steroid research from 1946 to 1971.
• Research focused on various steroid classes including delta 5,7-steroids and corticoids.

Observation:

• The primary objective was to discover novel anti-inflammatory steroids.
• Specific interest in treating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis with new steroid therapies.

Findings:

• A rational drug design approach was employed.
• This led to the development of 16 alpha-hydroxycorticoids.
• Synthesis and therapeutic application of triamcinolone and related compounds were achieved.

Implications:

• The research yielded effective anti-inflammatory agents.
• Triamcinolone became a significant therapeutic steroid.
• Advanced understanding of steroid structure-activity relationships for anti-inflammatory effects.